Today in world football, the two best players are easily Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Most argue that Messi is probably the worlds greatest player. He is a great player and wonderful to watch. However, whether it is because I am biased as a United fan or because I feel the need to play the devil's advocate, I often lend my support to Ronny for the world's best. Usually this is answered with dramatic arguments about his arrogance, diving or Messi's considerable talent. Sometimes it is tough to argue with Messi's brilliance. But, Ronaldo has brilliance too. Often it is not the same type of magic that the little Argentine produces but it is spectacular just the same. There are many different things that can make a player great. Both of these athletes have some of these qualities. How do you decide which qualities make someone the best?
Through out history the greatest players have most usually been associated with performing well in international tournaments such as the world cup or the European championship. Neither Messi or Ronaldo are known particularly for their performances playing for their countries. Both Messi and Ronaldo are better known for their performances for their respective clubs. This is probably better criteria for recognition as the worlds best player. While international teams playing eachother is exciting and usually dramaitic, it does not provide the highest quality of play. The highest quality football can be found in the Champions League as well as in the major European leagues. So, while many critics hold this fact against the two footballers, there is not much reason to do so. Figures such as Pele who criticize the two and sugest that they have a long way to go until they reach his level are stuck in the past and not worth listening to. These former players or pundits should be excited to see how the sport has developed and the beauty and competition both Messi and Ronaldo bring to the game.
Who is better? Many people are asking that question right now as both players continue to get better each season. As people, the two players are very different. Ronaldo is the celebrity. He is outgoing, cocky and often has a sense of humor. Messi on the other hand is more reserved. He is not known for being a celebrity and does not say much off the pitch. They are very different personalities. Often this is what attracts fans to players. Ronaldo is brazen, sarcastic and dramatic while Messi is more subtle. But when it comes down to it, which player makes more of an impact. Most often, fans answer with Messi. However, I see it differently. Messi is a member of arguably the best team on the planet. While Real Madrid are a one of Europe's better teams, I am not sure that they have the arsenal of players that Barcelona can currently field. However, Real Madrid currently lead La Liga by seven points. Mostly due to Cristiano's prolific scoring.
This is not to say that Madrid are a particularly bad team. It is just I have seen them perform quite miserably and still win because their number 7 basically drug them to the win. Messi on the other hand sits in front of the world's best midfield every game. As prolific of a player as Leo Messi is, I am sure that Barcelona would perform just as well as if another talented striker were in his position. I also find myself asking whether Mr. Messi would be as successfull on lesser team. We know Ronaldo would be.
While Manchester United and Real Madrid are great teams, neither posess the depth of talent that Barcelona currently does. Messi is a large part of that team but I am not so sure he is the difference. Ronaldo has so many aspects to his game. Ronaldo's dribling (while fantastic in it's self) may not be as fast or effective as Leo Messi's left foot. He seems to be the more well rounded player though. He is not only a threat from his idividual effort. He posses massive threats in the air as well as from a dead ball. His free kicks are some of the best in the world. He is also very efective in his runs off the ball. The traits that most set Ronaldo apart are his focus and determination. His work ethic is well known to be monumental during matches as well as training. Still, many question his attitude.
In my experience coaching and playing this sport, the players that were the best were intensively competitive and emotionally invested in their game. Sure they could be immature at times. This is not unusual. Look at the some of the best players in history such as Eric Cantona and Zinedine Zidane. They both were highly intense and emotional athletes. More importantly, look at their talent and their presence on the field. These men are special players who have a special ability to inspire their team mates to play better and harder. Ronaldo is the same. The team plays better when he is on the pitch. Not just because of his individual effort but also because of the his presence. As great as Messi is, I do not see him showing that presence. He is amazing with the ball at his feet. I look for more than just that. So to me Cristiano takes it. But hey, what do i know I am just a "stupide americane".
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